Which Contenders On The Fringe Will Secure An NFL Playoff Berth In 2023?

3 min read Post on May 23, 2025

Which Contenders on the Fringe Will Secure an NFL Playoff Berth in 2023?

The NFL season is underway, and while some teams have cemented their places as frontrunners, the race for the playoffs is far from over. Several teams sit on the fringe, battling for a coveted postseason berth. This year's competition is fierce, making the fight for a wildcard spot even more exciting. Who among these dark horses will emerge victorious and secure their place in the NFL Playoffs in 2023? Let's examine some of the key contenders.

The Detroit Lions: Roar Back to Relevance?

The Detroit Lions have captivated fans with their high-octane offense and exciting brand of football. After a surprisingly strong 2022 season, expectations are high in Motown. Their young quarterback, Jared Goff, has shown significant improvement, and the addition of key players in the offseason has bolstered their roster. However, their success hinges on consistency and avoiding debilitating injuries. Can the Lions maintain their momentum and finally break their playoff drought? Their schedule presents a challenging mix of tough opponents and winnable games. Their ability to navigate this will be crucial.

The New York Jets: Will Rodgers Reignite the Green and White?

The New York Jets' acquisition of future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers sent shockwaves through the NFL. The pressure is immense, but with Rodgers at the helm, the Jets possess the potential to make a deep playoff run. Their success will depend on Rodgers' health and the performance of their supporting cast, including a young, dynamic running back in Breece Hall and a steadily improving defense. However, the AFC East is notoriously tough, and the Jets face a daunting schedule. Can Rodgers lead the Jets to their first playoff appearance since 2010? This is a question burning on the minds of many football fans.

The Washington Commanders: A Potential Surprise Package?

The Washington Commanders find themselves in a similar position to the Lions and Jets: brimming with potential, but needing to prove themselves. The quarterback situation remains a point of discussion, but a strong running game and a solid defense provide a foundation for success. Their playoff chances depend heavily on consistent quarterback play and minimizing turnovers. Can the Commanders overcome their inconsistencies and make a late-season push for a wildcard spot? Their divisional rivals present a significant challenge, but unexpected upsets are always possible in the NFL.

Other Teams to Watch:

Beyond these three, teams like the Green Bay Packers, the New Orleans Saints, and the Dallas Cowboys, while currently positioned better, can't afford complacency. One bad stretch of games could easily push them into the fringe, increasing the competitiveness of the playoff race.

Factors Affecting the Playoff Race:

Several factors will determine which fringe teams make the playoffs. Injury reports will play a crucial role, as will divisional matchups and the overall strength of schedule. The performance of key players and the ability of coaching staffs to adapt to changing circumstances will also be critical.

Conclusion:

The battle for the NFL Playoffs in 2023 is shaping up to be a thrilling one. The Lions, Jets, and Commanders represent compelling storylines, and their success or failure will significantly impact the final standings. While predicting the future is inherently difficult, one thing is certain: the final weeks of the regular season will be filled with high stakes and intense competition. Keep your eyes peeled – you don't want to miss the action! Which team do you think will make the biggest surprise run? Let us know in the comments below!